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Things to do in Playa del Carmen

When you're done tanning at one of the hip beaches, head to a nearby jungle amusement park for thrills.

Our most recommended things to do in Playa del Carmen

Xcaret Park: Plus Full-Day Admission with Night Show & Lunch

1. Xcaret Park: Plus Full-Day Admission with Night Show & Lunch

Enjoy full-day admission to Xcaret Park, a paradise theme park on the Maya Riviera, where you can enjoy more than 40 activities and attractions. Your ticket includes access to all the facilities, including showers, dressing rooms, and snorkeling equipment for your convenience. Once inside the park, choose the activities that suit. Highlights include the Coral Reef Aquarium and Marine Turtles Area. Admire the manatees of the Manatee Lagoon, or be dazzled by colorful butterflies in the Butterfly Pavilion. See howler monkeys at Spider Monkey Island, or explore how mushrooms are cultivated at the Mushroom Farm. The Living Museum of Orchids displays Mexican orchids in all their glory. Wander a jungle trail to visit the Regional Wildlife Breeding Farm. Ascend the Rotating Scenic Tower for spectacular views, and watch cultural performances of Mayan and Mexican music and dance. You can even visit a Mayan Village! Colonial history is not neglected at the St. Francis of Assisi Chapel, while folk art is displayed at the Hacienda Henequenera. Watch the sky turn a rainbow of colors at the Stained-Glass Plaza, or discover a pre-Hispanic ball court to learn about the Maya sports events. Between October 30th and November 2nd, you'll be able to enjoy activities that are part of the Life and Death Festival.

Playa del Carmen: Chichen Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid Tour

2. Playa del Carmen: Chichen Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid Tour

Discover the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá on a guided tour from Playa del Carmen. Immerse yourself in the jungle at an eco-park, with some time for swimming in a cenote and a hearty buffet lunch. Start with pickup from Playa del Carmen and first travel to the jungle eco-park. Marvel at the sacred cenote as you refresh yourself with a purifying swim in crystalline waters. Dig into a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant at the eco-park, and be ready for a flavor sensation. Try some of the famed Mexican cuisine with regional dishes from Yucatán. After your buffet, head to the world-famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá. Take a guided tour of the ceremonial site and listen to fascinating tales of the ancient Maya civilization. Learn more with your expert guides and hear entertaining stories of life at Chichen Itzá. Discover a culture that was way ahead of its time. Then, enjoy some free time to explore by yourself and walk in the footsteps of the Mayan people. Your final stop is in the colonial center of Valladolid for a quick visit to this charming “Magic Town” of Mexico. The imposing church and architecture of the town surrounding the “zocalo'' or town square are perfect photo ops and a chance to relax and enjoy the laid-back vibes of Yucatán, before heading back to Playa del Carmen.

Playa Del Carmen: Round-Trip Ferry Ticket to/from Cozumel

3. Playa Del Carmen: Round-Trip Ferry Ticket to/from Cozumel

Pre-book a quick round-trip ferry service between Playa Del Carmen and Cozumel. Get maximum flexibility with continuous daily departures and a 6-month ticket validation period. Enjoy added perks including a snack bar, open-air decks, live music, TVs, and electrical outlets. On the day of your chosen departure, hop on board a high-speed 157-foot JETLINE Class catamaran type ferry, constructed of aluminum and featuring 3 decks with a capacity between 150 and 800 passengers. Enjoy new generation gangways for express boarding and carry-on baggage handling. On board, take advantage of covered and open-air decks, panoramic windows, TV screens, a snack bar, electrical outlets, live music, and underwater illumination. Ride in maximum comfort with on-board air conditioning, leather seats, and restrooms. As you head to your destination, take some time to relax with plenty of legroom in high-quality ergonomic high-quality leather seats designed and constructed in Europe by the same high technology companies that work with Porsche and Ferrari. Premium Class Tickets include round-trip transportation with general ferry access. If you’re looking to add a little more to your trip, choose First Class Tickets for referred access to the ferry, reliable seats with more space, and access to a lounge area. Whatever ticket option you choose, you’ll get to experience a ferry transfer focused on passengers and making their journey something even more special. The beauty of the islands, coupled with the comfort and quickness of the boats, make this the preferred trip for visitors to this area. 

Riviera Maya: Aqua Nick Park Admission Ticket

4. Riviera Maya: Aqua Nick Park Admission Ticket

Cool off and enjoy a day of family fun at Aqua Nick, a Nickelodeon theme park in the Riviera Maya. Enjoy access to the park's many attractions, which include thrilling water slides, a lazy river and adventure river, activity pool, multiple swimming areas and a dedicated area perfect for toddlers. Upgrades available for a hassle-free day. Spend the day enjoying the slides, rivers, pools at Aqua Nick, Loungers and snacks provided. Upgrade your ticket to include food Lockers and pick-ups available at many Cancun and Riviera Maya The food at Aqua Nick is just as amazing! Every member of the family will be able to enjoy their favorite dishes at the Aqua Bite stations, where you will find hamburgers, bowls, hot dogs, poke bowls and all kinds of drinks, poke bowls and soft drinks, water, beer and national open bar. The pool for the most daring activities, offers scheduled activities and experiences. programmed experiences. Attractions include: Wave Ball: A colorful ball that creates waves for an ocean-like experience. experience similar to being at sea. Climbing wall: climb to new heights and increase your strength. Water walking system: a play area that helps the little ones to challenge the water through the children to challenge the water by means of floating cushions.

From Tulum: Mayan ruins & Sian Kaan Nature Reserve Tour

5. From Tulum: Mayan ruins & Sian Kaan Nature Reserve Tour

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Muyil and the Sian Kaan Nature Reserve on a half-day tour from Tulum. You will encounter a variety of birds, plants, and animals before wandering through the ruins to discover the incredible history of this ancient civilization. After being picked up from Tulum you will be transferred to the Sian Kaan Nature Reserve. Walk through this inspiring eco-preserve to the highest point in the reserve and gaze out at an unblemished jungle filled with hundreds of species of birds, plants, and animal life. Enjoy a small hike before a boat ride through the trading canals of the ancient Maya civilization and visit the Maya temple of Xlapak. You will see the detailed facades of these old ruins, located at the bottom of the river valley. Next, float and swim back down through the canals between mangroves and gently make your way back out into the crystal-clear waters around the peninsula. Onboard, enjoy an assortment of Mexican snacks and lunch as the sun sets over this beautiful landscape. Experience the very best of this region. The food, the culture, the nature, and a bit of relaxation in the water make this a perfect day trip.

Xcaret Park: Full-Day Ticket with Night Show

6. Xcaret Park: Full-Day Ticket with Night Show

Discover Xcaret Park, a wonderful paradise where you can enjoy more than 40 activities and attractions. Be a special guest at an ancient Mayan ball game, and join the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular celebration during your visit. Enjoy an experience with free access to showers, dressing rooms, bags for belongings, life vests and parking. Encounter colorful cultural performances including the nightly Xcaret Mexico Espectacular celebration. Take part in water activities including underground rivers, the Río del Paraíso journey, as well as time for lazing on the beach, inlet and natural pools. Explore the Coral Reef Aquarium, Marine Turtles Area, Manatee Lagoon, Bat Cave, Butterfly Pavilion, Deer Refuge, and Jaguar Island. See howler monkeys at Spider Monkey Island, and explore mushroom cultivation at the Mushroom Farm. Or visit the Living Museum of Orchids to discover Mayan orchids in full glory. Wander through the Tropical Jungle Trail, and visit the Regional Wildlife Breeding Farm. Take in the Rotating Scenic Tower for spectacular views. Experience cultural performances and see archaeological sites. Visit a Mayan Village. Discover colonial history at the St. Francis of Assisi Chapel and folk art at the Hacienda Henequenera. Watch the sky turn to a rainbow of colors at the Stained-Glass Plaza, and take nature and culture tours as part of your ticket.

Cancun/Playa del Carmen: Tickets to Rio Secreto and Lunch

7. Cancun/Playa del Carmen: Tickets to Rio Secreto and Lunch

Immerse yourself in an ancient world of stalactites and stalagmites with a visit to Rio Secret in Playa del Carmen. Roam the labyrinths of dramatic rock formations and tranquil waters in this hidden underground network of rivers and caves. Upon arriving at Rio Secreto, meet your guide and receive a wetsuit, wet shoes, a lamp, and a helmet to get ready for the adventure. Then enter the caves, where you have 1968 feet (600 meters) free to walk, swim, and enjoy the enchanting beauty of your surroundings.  After approximately 1.5 hours, you will be taken back to ground level and treated to a light lunch of delicious local food. Choose the green salsa if your taste buds like it hot. This is a chance for you to relax in the serene jungle habitat and reflect upon your experience in the caves. Next, you may wash and change before heading back to your hotel.

Playa del Carmen: Coco Bongo Nightclub Experience

8. Playa del Carmen: Coco Bongo Nightclub Experience

Immerse yourself in a night of non-stop action at Coco Bongo with this entry ticket. Experience flying acrobats, live music, and an unforgettable party atmosphere. Be amazed by confetti and light shows, as you sip on delicious cocktails at this Playa del Carmen spectacular. Head for the dazzling doors of Coco Bongo, a club just one block from the majestic Caribbean Sea, and prepare to have one of the most shocking and memorable nights of your life. Once inside, be amazed by flying acrobats, impressive musical tributes, and the continuous party atmosphere that has made Coco Bongo world famous. Hit the dance floor under falling glittering confetti or savor a delicious cocktail while tribute acts bring the best of Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Beyoncé. Choose from entry tickets including Drink Pack, Regular, Gold Member, Double Gold, and Front Row options. Depending on the option selected, enjoy different benefits throughout the night, such as national drinks, premium drinks, snacks, and much more. Take advantage of complimentary access to the Beach Club, whichever option you pick.

Riviera Maya: Xel-Há Park All-Inclusive 1-Day Pass

9. Riviera Maya: Xel-Há Park All-Inclusive 1-Day Pass

Explore Xel-Há Park with a full-day all-inclusive ticket. Enjoy a variety of land and water activities for the whole family. Discover a universe dedicated to ecology and the preservation of flora and fauna, it offers constantly developing environmental programs to protect and conserve the environment. Benefit from access to all the attractions and enjoy delicious Mexican and international cuisine with unlimited drinks and an open bar throughout the day. Dive into the waters of Xel-Há, the world's most beautiful natural aquarium, and snorkel next to a variety of plants and hundreds of tropical fish in the warm Caribbean waters. Slide down the Salpichanga and fly with a vine to drop yourself in the cool waters of a “cenote” or underground river. Test your balance on the Trepachanga and walk over the river between two loose strings. Hammock Island is an ideal place to relax and indulge with the whims of the Caribbean Sea. Fabulous cocktails are served just a few steps away, and you can enjoy them with all the tranquility of the world as your company. Discover historical vestiges of the Mayan culture while enjoying a mysterious landscape in the forest. Walk along the paths of the natural reserve, where you will find a selection of phrases and thoughts printed along the route. Be amazed by the Ixchel Grotto. Carved by underground rivers for thousands of years, it crosses a small, narrowed canyon until it emerges on the opposite side. See how the light is refracted beneath the waters of the Grotto El Dorado, and renew your spirit enjoying these historic and natural formations. Take your kids to the children’s playground to enjoy the magnificent amusement park, with swings, rails, wheels and slides for the kids to keep active and have fun at the same time. Admire the mangrove forest from the footpaths of the river, taking a small diversion that leads to a platform totally surrounded by the wonderful vegetation. Breathe in the harmonious atmosphere of the paradise park, filled with typical trees of the region.

Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Small Group Tour

10. Full-Day Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum Small Group Tour

Embark on a small group tour led by a knowledgeable guide and explore three of the Yucatan's most fascinating archaeological sites. Over the course of 12 hours, you'll discover the ancient Maya ruins of Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza, immersing yourself in the region's rich history and culture. Start your day at Tulum, a stunning coastal site overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Admire the striking contrast between the ancient Maya ruins and the turquoise waters of the sea. Explore the Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God, and learn about the city's role as a major port in the Maya world. Next, visit Coba, an impressive and less-visited site that boasts the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan, where you will learn about the unique features of the city, such as the network of elevated stone roads called sacbeob. Finish the day at Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your guide will bring the ancient city to life as you explore the iconic pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, and the Observatory. Discover the incredible engineering feats of the Maya civilization and learn about the significance of the buildings and their connection to astronomy and religion. When touring these incredible sites, take a refreshing dip in a 'cenote', a natural underground pool, and indulge in a delicious buffet lunch to refuel. Throughout the day, you'll enjoy chauffeur-style transport exclusively for your small group, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience. This small group tour offers a personalized and immersive way to discover some of the most famous landmarks in the Yucatan. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll gain insight into the fascinating history and culture of the region, making for a truly unforgettable adventure. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see these remarkable sites up close and in the company of like-minded travelers.

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The best day trips and excursions from Playa del Carmen are:

Tulum

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Other Sightseeing Options in Playa del Carmen

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What people are saying about Playa del Carmen

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 4,947 reviews

Everything went as planned. The early tour is the best thing to do, few people at Chichen Itza and plenty of room in the cenote afterwards. Top changing rooms and lockers for the backpacks as well as a top meal rounded off the stay in the cenote. Our tour guide Alejandro "Alex" went to a lot of trouble and explained everything in detail. If I had anything to complain about at a high level, I would say that Itza could use a little more time. So it fitted better in time with the cenote.

This tour was spectacular, and mainly due to one thing: our tour guide, Ursula. She was warm and friendly and very knowledgeable. It felt like a good friend was sharing her world with us. We loved the whole tour: the ruins at Muyil, the walk through the jungle, the delicious lunch, the boat rides to and from, and most especially the relaxing, magical float down the canal. Ursula gave us a memory that we will long remember and cherish.

Staff at phocea were great, nice dive relaxed and fun, smoothly done:-)

We really enjoyed the trip! Carlos and Diego were amazing !

Our Guides for both the ATV and speed boat were great.